“Paul, an apostle, not sent from men nor through the agency of man, but through Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised Him from the dead.” (Galatians 1:1)
We cannot accept Jesus without accepting His apostles. Paul made it clear that everything he wrote carried the full weight and authority of Jesus and His Father. To accept Jesus is to accept the New Testament letters written by the apostles and prophets.
Jesus Himself said, “He who receives whomever I send receives Me, and he who receives Me, receives Him who sent Me.” (John 13:20) There is a chain of authority that cannot be severed. The Scriptures are linked to those who wrote them (the apostles and prophets), and the writers are linked to those who sent them (Jesus and the Father).
To read the Bible is to understand what Jesus wants us to know about Him and about life. The Scriptures contain all things which pertain to life and godliness (see 2 Peter 1:3).
Matthew, Paul, Peter, and the other writers of the New Testament speak authoritatively about all things moral and eternal because they are authorized to do so. Jesus stands by their words, and we must do likewise.
Matthew 4:4 #Biblebites
Today’s Reading: Galatians 1:1-10
Questions to ask:
- How is Paul feeling as he writes today’s passage? What is his mood?
- What are the central themes in Paul’s preaching and teaching which are being emphasized, or how are the central themes in this epistle being emphasized in today’s reading?
- How does our reading show Paul’s people skills, especially how he handles conflict?
- What in this passage would change the lives of the believer(s) being addressed? How does it make me a better disciple?
- How does this show the “good news” of the gospel? How can I share that with someone else?
This year, #Biblebites are following the life and writings of Paul. If you would like a copy of the reading schedule, you can view it here: https://eastlandchristians.org/news-events/2023-vision